Ferrari 812 Superfast 2018: V12 Review, Specs & Performance

The Ferrari 812 Superfast arrived in 2018 as a bold statement from Maranello, blending grand touring comfort with hypercar ferocity. Powered by a naturally aspirated 6.5-liter V12 engine producing 789 horsepower, this front-engined, rear-wheel-drive masterpiece delivers acceleration that rivals the quickest machines on the planet while offering surprising usability on public roads.

Engineering a V12 Legend

At the heart of the 812 Superfast lies Ferrari’s largest-ever naturally aspirated V12, displacing 6,496 cc with dual overhead cams and 48 valves. This engine revs to an astonishing 8,900 rpm, unleashing 789 bhp at 8,500 rpm and 529 lb-ft of torque at 7,000 rpm. The power surge feels linear yet explosive, making every drive an event.

Ferrari engineers refined the powertrain for seamless delivery through a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. This setup shifts gears in milliseconds, propelling the car from 0-62 mph in just 2.9 seconds officially, though real-world tests clock it at 2.7 seconds to 60 mph. Quarter-mile runs end in 10.4 seconds at 138 mph, with 100 mph arriving in 5.7 seconds.

Active aerodynamics play a crucial role, with electrically operated flaps on the front bumper and rear diffuser that deploy above 112 mph. These adjust to boost downforce by up to 374 lbs or reduce drag for top-speed runs, ensuring stability at triple-digit speeds.

Chassis Dynamics and Handling Mastery

Despite its grand tourer badge, the 812 Superfast handles like a track weapon. Ferrari’s fourth-generation Side Slip Angle Control (SSC4) system monitors and adjusts for controlled oversteer, allowing drivers to exploit the rear end confidently. Electric Power Steering (EPS) pairs with rear-axle steering (Virtual Short Wheelbase 2.0), sharpening turn-in and stability.

The suspension uses double wishbone upfront and multilink at the rear, with magnetorheological adaptive dampers that firm up instantly for cornering or soften for cruising. Carbon-ceramic brakes—398 mm front, 360 mm rear—haul the car down from high speeds with precision, resisting fade during aggressive sessions. Tires are massive: 275/35 ZR20 fronts and 315/35 ZR20 rears, gripping like glue on twisty roads.

• Approachability: Surprisingly forgiving for novices, with electronic aids that can be dialed back for experts.
• Feedback: Tactile steering and pedals transmit road feel without harshness.
• Balance: Near-perfect 50/50 weight distribution despite the front-mounted V12.

Reviewers praise its ‘mind-warping’ pace combined with a chassis that invites driver involvement, making it less intimidating than mid-engined rivals like the Lamborghini Aventador.

Design and Aerodynamic Brilliance

The 812 Superfast’s exterior evolves Ferrari’s iconic lines with sharper creases and curves. Matrix LED headlights pierce the night, while the long hood and sculpted flanks emphasize its muscular stance. Custom paint options like Grigio Opaco add a stealthy premium, though they command hefty prices.

Wind tunnel-honed aero generates 836 lbs of downforce at top speed, channeled through a massive rear diffuser and active spoilers. The result is planted high-speed composure and visual drama, as flaps deploy audibly during hard drives.

Luxury Interior and Driver Focus

Step inside, and premium leather envelops the cabin, with carbon fiber accents and customizable stitching. The cockpit centers on the driver: a compact steering wheel with integrated manettino controls four driving modes—Wet, Comfort, Sport, and Race. Digital gauges are crisp, and the infotainment includes Apple CarPlay for modern connectivity.

Two bucket seats offer support for track days yet comfort for long hauls. Rear space is minimal, confirming its 2+2 pretense, but luggage capacity suits weekend getaways. Build quality is impeccable, though some note the electronic steering lacks the hydraulic feel of older Ferraris.

Performance Benchmarks and Real-World Testing

In acceleration tests, the 812 obliterates benchmarks: 0-200 km/h in 7.9 seconds and a theoretical top end of 211 mph. Braking from 62 mph takes just 107 feet, showcasing brake prowess. Fuel economy lags at 12 mpg city/16 highway, typical for its class, but a 24.3-gallon tank enables 300+ mile ranges.

On roads, the exhaust symphony—from guttural lows to stratospheric wails—drowns out tire roar. It’s not the most refined GT, vibrating slightly at idle, but that’s part of its raw charm. UK drivers note its width challenges narrow lanes, yet it’s more livable than track-focused siblings.

Ownership Costs and Reliability

Priced from $340,000 base (often exceeding $450,000 loaded), the 812 demands deep pockets. Options inflate quickly, but resale holds strong. Owners rate reliability 5/5, with few issues beyond occasional battery drain from inactivity. Maintenance at Ferrari dealers is pricey, but the V12’s durability shines.

Insurance and fuel add up, yet enthusiasts deem it worthwhile for the unmatched V12 experience in a naturally aspirated era.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

Who Should Buy the 812 Superfast?

Ideal for affluent enthusiasts craving analog thrills in a digital world. It outpaces most supercars while offering GT versatility—perfect for canyon carving, track days, or high-speed tours. Rivals like the Aston Martin DBS fall short on raw power, while McLarens lack the V12 soul.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the 2018 Ferrari 812 Superfast reliable?

Yes, owners report above-average reliability (5/5 rating), with robust engineering minimizing issues.

How fast is the Ferrari 812 Superfast?

0-60 mph in 2.7 seconds tested, top speed 211 mph, quarter-mile in 10.4 seconds at 138 mph.

What’s the fuel economy of the 812 Superfast?

12 mpg city, 16 mpg highway—par for high-performance V12 territory.

Does it have all-wheel drive?

No, strictly rear-wheel drive for purist dynamics.

Is the 812 Superfast comfortable for daily driving?

Surprisingly yes, with Comfort mode smoothing rides, though its size suits open roads best.

Why the 812 Superfast Endures

Even years later, the 812 Superfast captivates with its unfiltered V12 passion. It’s a bridge between Ferrari’s GT heritage and modern hypercar tech, delivering joy that’s as addictive as it is accessible. For those who can afford it, few machines match its blend of speed, sound, and soul.